I always had a wonderful opportunity to sit together with ministers, mayors and other dignitaries of different countries. I share my experiences and message of Lord Buddha for world peace and urge to raise their effort for environmental protection. I always look forward for a positive attitude of public towards cycling and expect the frequency of cycle rider increase.

In Harare, I had a plan to meet the mayor of Harare and Environment minister of Zimbabwe. So, as usual, I started dropping letters to set an appointment. Jeffery was with me the whole time. 25th June after I left the mayor’s office, getting to honorable minister was easy. The ministry was only 3 minute of walk from my hotel. In front of the ministry, I was glad in myself that I was going to meet Honorable minister of environmental affairs. I was set to be in the 12th floor where the minister’s office was; and it was surprising when I found the lift was not working. After a little exercise, I was on the 228th stair in front of which was the minister’s office. I was amazed to see a beautiful lady there who crossed the stairs with her pointed heels. I counted the stairs; I found, I made 912 steps of exercise while I visited twice.

I was happy to convey my message via various print and audio-visual media. I was busy interviewing radio and newspapers the whole day on 26 June. I expected the same that evening, but I had to sleep with my stomach unfilled. This time, it was not because of financial problem but, because of unethical behavior of a retail store. I had purchased pre-cooked curry and a packet of bread from OK Supermarket. When I was ready to get away from my hunger, I found the bread was rotten. All stores in Zimbabwe close at eight, and I even couldn’t buy any food. Disappointed and furious, I slept with a little curry in my stomach. The next day, I made a complaint at the store, and they assured not to repeat the mistake. This seems small, but is a huge problem in business attitude and behavior. I found the food rotten and unhealthy but it might be the blind eyes of hungry stomach that would prefer satisfying hunger over hygiene which may lead eating such unhealthy food item.

27th June was my birthday. I woke up, expressed my gratitude to Lord Buddha for everything he has given to me. My life, my friends, my world and a peaceful soul; everything is priceless to me. After Suryanamaskar (worshipping the sun) I prayed to all the holy inspirations to uplift morality and humanity and ensure world peace and develop an attitude in people to work for sustaining the world charming like now for their descendents. True peace cannot be obtained unless we find a way to get into human heart.

I called Jeffery. We had to go meet Mayor of Harare. I took my bicycle and straight to the Mayor’s office, I was also allowed to take my bicycle inside the parking though I had not made a prior notice. I am grateful to Mr. M. A. Masunda for his precious time despite of his busy schedule. I was delighted to hear his compliments on my effort to raise environmental issues. I was enthused by his admiration on my effort to enhance cross cultural intimacy. This is the first time I have ever visited any of the honorable dignitaries in my birthday. This meeting, I felt as a gift from the Mayor of Harare.

The second birthday gift was given by the hotel. In the evening, I was back to the hotel and as I entered, the owner offered me a day free lodging and fooding. I am grateful to Park View Guest house for its courtesy.

I was set to leave to South Africa the 28th before which Shubash wostey and Sharad Neupane arrived to give me a farewell. Mr. Wostey is currently working in UNHCR and Neupane in UNDP in Harare. I could never forget their support in Zimbabwe.

After Harare, I took the same route I used to be at the capital city of Zimbabwe. I took a turn from Bulawayo towards Beitbridge. During the 1050 KM of cycling in Zimbabwe, I found Zimbabweans very friendly and helpful. I am grateful to everyone for their wonderful support. Difficult things happened in South Africa. Updating soon.

Peace and Harmony

Furtemba Sherpa